Best Android Watches: Fitness Tracking Made Easy

If you are into sports, you probably could use a fine fitness watch to track your progress more closely. Even though there are plenty of Android apps you can use to keep track of your progress, it’s very easy to get lost among multiple available options and data you can’t always trust. However, if you’re looking for a device that won’t only be compatible with your Android phone, but you’ll be able to easily wear with you at all times, then getting to learn a few things about the best android watches might come in hand.

Depending on the model you choose, the smartwatch technology allows for hands-free monitoring of things like heart rate, steps taken, and calories burned. Apart from being extremely light and pretty comfortable to wear, Android watches can be easily paired up with your phone and allow you to stay in touch with friends and family.

Since we know that choosing what’s right for you might not be the easiest of tasks, we’ve decided to dive in and investigate the Android watch market. Apart from some handy features, below you will also find some detailed product information and comparisons regarding our top choices of Android watches available today.

Things to Consider Before Buying

While most Android watches hold many things in common, they do differ slightly. It is important to take the time to consider which features are of greatest use and importance to you and what amount of money you are willing to spend on those specific features. Below are detailed descriptions of several features available on the Android watches.

Smartphone Compatibility

Before investigating any feature in depth, it is important to be 100% certain that the watches you are taking into consideration are compatible with your smartphone make and model. Some of the watches we’ve included on our list are specific to Android while others are compatible with a combination of Android and iOS models.

If your smartphone isn’t compatible with a watch, it may be possible to download a special app for your phone to allow for at least partial compatibility. For example, the Huawei Watch 2 Classic requires the installment of the Android Wear app. If your phone is an iOS, an iOS version of the Android Wear app is in fact available.

Waterproofing

Before discounting the importance of whether a watch is waterproof or not, consider the activities you participate in and the environments where you participate in them. Do you spend a great deal of time outdoors? If so, are you often exposed to heavy rainfall? Do you swim?

The water resistance rating format may look a little funky to you in the beginning. It consists of the letters “IP” followed by 2 numbers. The “IP” stands for “International Protection”. The first digit rates how resistant an electronic device is to dirt, dust, and sand. The second digit rates the water resistance. We will only focus on the second digit.

In this article, most of the second digits included are either a 7 or 8. So what’s the difference? A 7 means that the device can be submerged in 3 feet of water for up to 30 minutes. An 8 means that it can be submerged in 5 feet of water for up to 30 minutes. Either way, diving is not recommended, nor are longer water exposure times.

You’ll notice that the water resistance rating for the Polar M600 Sports watch looks a little different than the others with a rating of IPX8. The company states that this rating means it can be submerged as deep as 10 meters!

GPS Capabilities

GPS can come in handy in several ways. For one, GPS capability coupled with pedometer capability can make for accurate mileage tracking if you’re the type of person to set specific training goals. GPS can also simply allow you to map a specific route or find a specific location.

You’ll notice that the watches with GPS are generally more expensive and may have shorter battery lives. You must determine whether GPS is more important than cost and battery life, or vice versa.

Health/Fitness Tracking

If fitness is the main purpose you are seeking out a smartwatch, which is likely why you’re even reading this article, exploring fitness tracking features and applications is necessary. Some watches feature nothing more than a basic pedometer. Others are capable of heart rate monitoring, calorie tracking, sleep monitoring, speed and lap tracking, and swimming metrics.

Some of the more expensive watches are compatible with more well-known fitness apps if you’d rather use something you’re familiar with. This includes but is not limited to MapMyRun, Strava, and MyFitnessPal.

Battery Life

Battery life and usage depend upon which features of the watch you are utilizing and for how long you are using them for. The battery life of some watches used only on watch mode is 2-3 weeks. On the other hand, constant GPS usage may bring the battery life down to a matter of hours.

Watches that tend toward the cheaper end of the price spectrum were difficult to locate battery life information for. However, while reading customer reviews, many of them were said to have short battery lives as low as 6 hours to 1 day.

Other Applications and Features

Other features include but are not limited to the clock, alarm clock, calendar, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, alerts, and general phone functions. Feature and application information is generally located within a product’s written description or an accompanying comparison chart.

If you feel that you require additional information, seek out the official website for the product you are researching for more detail. It is also possible to contact most companies via phone if you are struggling to locate written information.

Best Products on Today’s Market

We’ve spent a great deal of time researching and comparing assorted products available on the market to provide you with important, accurate information that will help you decide what route to take. Here are our top 8 choices.

Description: The Samsung Gear S3 Frontier Smartwatch offers a wide array of features. It is a sturdy, water and weather resistant watch designed to help you accomplish your fitness goals whether they take place indoors or out.

A built-in GPS device allows for mileage and location tracking. Altitude tracking is also possible. Samsung Health, a fitness application present on the device, allows for detailed tracking of nutrient intake, exercise, and sleep. With smart notifications, speakers, and a microphone, you can still receive texts and phone calls even when you’re on the move!

If you’re a swimmer, then swim – just don’t dive or submerge yourself too deep! The watch has a water resistance rating of IP68 which means it can be exposed to water with a depth of 5 feet for no longer than 30 minutes.

In general, the Samsung Gear S3 Frontier may have much to offer for its price. Keep in mind that only certain features are available when using an iOS device.

PROS:

Water and weather resistant

Text and call capabilities

Battery life

Extensive fitness tracking capabilities

CONS:

Expensive

Only fully compatible with select Android Devices.

Related: If you’re looking for additional protection, the Samsung Gear S3 Screen Protector is specifically designed for the Samsung Gear S3 smartwatches. It is easy to install and prevents scratches and dings. It also provides protection from sweat and oil residue, prolonging the durability of your watch.

Description: If cost is your greatest concern when shopping for a smartwatch, the Sazooy DZ09 Bluetooth Smart Watch may be the best choice for you. For a pretty low price, you’re not only getting general watch features, texting, and calling abilities, but also access to select social media apps, a camera, and basic fitness tracking functions.

Fitness tracking functions include a sleep monitor, sedentary reminders, and a pedometer. While this watch may not be perfect for in-depth fitness tracking of individuals on a tight training regime, it will, in fact, be perfect for someone who is simply looking to focus on tracking their steps taken throughout an average day.

If having access to social media is important to you, this watch is bound to meet your needs, since it allows access to social media maps such as Twitter and Facebook. It also offers web browser access.

While this watch is fully compatible with most Android phones, only certain features are available to iOS users. Also, this phone is not waterproof, so precaution must be taken when facing the elements outdoors.

PROS:

Affordable

Phone calls and texting possible

Access to social media

CONS:

Only select features are operable if using an iOS device.

Lacking some fitness tracking features

Related: If you’re in need of additional storage space, the SanDisk Ultra 32GB microSDHC UHS-I Card may be just what you need. It is magnet proof, waterproof and safe from extreme temperatures. On top of that, an adapter is included.

Description: The Huawei Watch 2 Classic is a high-quality sports watch with many features and functions to accommodate an active lifestyle. Whether you keep your workout indoors or hit the trails around town, this watch has something for everyone.

Heart rate monitoring and GPS tracking are continuous, even without your phone, so route mapping and fitness tracking are possible anywhere, anytime. Unfortunately, this watch isn’t designed for swimming. It has a water resistance of IP67 which means it can be submerged to water to a depth of 3 feet but only for a limited amount of time.

When it comes to leading an active lifestyle, comfort is something that should always be taken into consideration. But bearing in mind the proportions of the watch, as well as its lightweight, comfort shouldn’t be an issue in this case. It is one of the lighter, less bulky watches on the market which means giving you more movement freedom.

PROS:

Real-time workout coaching

Heart rate monitor

Waterproof to some extent

GPS

Long battery life

CONS:

Expensive

Cannot be submerged in water

Sleep monitoring is not included

Related: If you’re looking to prolong the durability of your watch, then you might want to get a screen protector. One popular screen protector commonly used with this watch is Supershieldz for Huawei Watch 2. It is anti-scratch, protects against fingerprints and oils, and provides for easy, bubble-free installation.

Description: The FLDOLPH Bluetooth Smart Watch is an inexpensive watch that may be suitable for those seeking the most basic fitness tracking and phone features. Coming with a screen in a decent size, using the watch shouldn’t be a problem even if you’re clumsy with touchscreen technology.

Fitness tracking features include step-tracking with a built-in pedometer, sleep monitoring, and sedentary reminders. General watch and phone features include phone calls, texting, calculator, camera and music playing through Bluetooth. The watch also connects with social media apps like Facebook and Twitter.

This watch is compatible with most Samsung Galaxy phones and iOS devices. However, only select features are available if using an iOS device.

The estimated battery life is less for than this watch than for other watches on this list. The battery is good for 2 days on standby and 6 hours while are features are being used. Though water resistance ratings weren’t available for this watch, smartwatches are generally designed to be resistant to sweat and light water exposure.

PROS:

Inexpensive

Touchscreen

MP3/MP4 player

Select social media apps

Pedometer

CONS:

No heart rate monitor

No GPS

Only select features are compatible with iOS devices

Short battery life

Related: The I&BUY Diamond Shield Liquid Screen Protector is great not only when it comes to smartwatches but to other touch-device screens and you can even apply it to your glasses as well. One great thing about it is that it allows you to protect your devices and prolong their durability without the annoying air bubbles forming on the surface.

Description: The Polar M600 Sports Smart Watch is specifically designed for sport and fitness. It is compatible with both Android and iOS devices. This watch offers numerous fitness tracking, phone and watch features. Featuring a sporty, sleek style, the watch comes in at 8 ounces, which might be a bit bulky for some.

Fitness tracking features include GPS that tracks the pace, distance, and altitude of your travels. Another feature is smart coaching which includes sports profiles, running index and heart rate zones. The Polar Flow app is also included. It helps you plan workout sessions and set fitness goals.

Out of all watches included on our list, this watch is most suitable for water exposure. With an IPX8 water resistance rating, it is designed for swimming or water exposure as deep as 10 meters. Diving isn’t recommended.

The battery life isn’t what it is for other watches, but it’ll keep you going for 2 days if you’re using an Android device. Battery life is reduced when the GPS is being used.

PROS:

Suitable for swimming

Designed for both Android and iOS devices

Smart coaching

Heart rate monitor

GPS

CONS:

Expensive

Bulky/heavy

Shorter battery life

Related: The Polar M600 Wrist Strap is specifically designed for the Polar M600 Sports watch. It is composed of a soft, silicone material which provides for comfort and it is also waterproof. Coming in a striking red color, it could be the right choice for you if you’re into bold looks even during workout time.

Description: If you’re seeking a high-quality watch with a wide array of fitness tracking and phone features, the Motorola Moto 360 Sport may well be the selection for you. The watch has a black, sporty design. It has a 44 mm LCD touch screen made of gorilla glass to better prevent surface-level damage.

Fitness features include heart rate monitoring, calorie burn monitoring, a pedometer, and a built-in GPS device to track mileage and location. If you prefer to use fitness specific applications such as MapMyRun or Strava as opposed to the built-in features, it is entirely possible!

This watch has a water resistance rating of IP67 which means it can handle water exposure to some extent, though swimming is not recommended. If you were to take your workout to the hills for a hike and an unexpected rainstorm came in, the watch would be perfectly safe.

As many of the other watches included in our list, this watch is compatible with most Android devices while only select features are compatible with iOS devices. If you’re not bothered by the higher price, it might be a good choice.

PROS:

Touchscreen

GPS

Heart rate monitoring

Pedometer

CONS:

Might be too heavy

Expensive

Not intended for swimming

Related: Try the Motorola Moto 360 Screen Protector to keep your new smartwatch safe from scratches and dings. Coming at a great price, it has a liquid adhesive that is easily applied without bubbles forming. The protector has been classified as optically transparent and comes with a lifetime warranty!

Description: The Vallen Water Resistant Smart Watch is another inexpensive smartwatch that made our list. Coming at a reasonable price, you’re getting a quality watch with basic fitness tracking and technological features. It is slim, black, and sporty in design. It’s heavier than some watches with and comes with a pretty decent 1.5-inch touchscreen.

In terms of fitness tracking, it offers a pedometer for step counting, sleep monitoring, and sedentary reminders. Other watch features include phone calls, texting, phone book, Bluetooth music, and a touchscreen.

This watch is not compatible with all smartphones. It is only compatible with Android 4.2 and later or iOS 7 and later. Only some functions are available when using an iOS device.

Though the watch is listed as water-resistant, you should still be careful when it comes to going swimming or diving with it. While the water resistance may be fine when it comes to lighter rain, you should be careful when it comes to fully submerging it under water.

PROS:

Inexpensive

Pedometer included

Sleep monitoring

CONS:

No heart rate monitoring

No GPS

Related: If you’re looking to keep your smartwatch dust-free, then give the Endust Screen Cleaning Wipes a try! Apart from being alcohol-free and gentle to any touchscreen device, they come in a handy package that allows you to take them anywhere with you or even leave a box in your car for everyday use.

Description: On the less expensive end of the smartwatch price spectrum is the RabbyRock Y1 Bluetooth Smart Watch to meet your most basic fitness and technological needs. Being lightweight enough, this watch can easily fit in the palm of your hand. It is designed to be comfortable and look sporty. It has a full-sized, round, HD touchscreen for easy access to features and applications.

This watch is best for monitoring your steps throughout everyday life whether you spend your time indoors or out. Sleep monitoring is also available and wearing it during the night shouldn’t be a problem for most people since the watch offers comfortable wear.

Technological features include phone calls, texting, a built-in phone book, anti-lost alert, a touch screen, and a camera. The phone and texting features are only available using a micro-SIM card.

While this watch is compatible with most Android devices, only certain features are compatible with iOS devices. We were unable to locate information regarding battery life and water resistance rating.

PROS:

Lightweight & comfortable

Pedometer included

Sleep monitoring

Great price

CONS:

No GPS

No heart rate monitoring

Related: The Wet Guard Liquid Screen Protector will come in handy if you’re looking to prevent scratches, dings, radiation, and smudges on your new smartwatch for up to 9 hours! The application is easy and the liquid screen protector also kills up to 99.8% of bacteria that may be lurking. On top of that, the liquid screen protector reduces radiation by up to 90%.

Wrap Up

The thought of starting in on a brand-new fitness journey may seem overwhelming at first. We have all grown accustomed to and comfortable living our lives the way we always have. Starting something new requires time, energy, willpower, and a whole lot of pep talk.

When you are researching the exciting fitness features of various smart watches, just remember that smartwatches are so easy. They’re easy to gather information about. They’re easy to order. They’re easy to program to your needs and use on an everyday basis because all you need to do is wear them on your wrist!

If you have questions along the way, we are always available to help you. Feel free to leave your questions and comments in the space provided and we will get back to you in ample time.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Henry Silva

Henry was hiking since he was 4. He was lucky enough to be born in Boulder, Colorado and enjoy Rocky Mountain National Park hikes growing up. His favourite is Longs Peak, which rises to 14,259 feet (4,346 m) above sea level. It is the highest point of the park. Henry likes to explore new hikes and spend his spare time in the wilderness.

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